Modular backpack system

ABSTRACT

A modular backpack system may be provided. The modular backpack system includes a first back panel, a second back panel configured to be removably attached to the first back panel, the second back panel including a first surface such that the first surface of the second back panel is wider than the first back panel, and an adjustable attachment system connected to the first surface of the second back panel including a plurality of attachment rails disposed along at least a portion of the vertical length of the second back panel in a substantially parallel configuration.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a modular backpack system.

BACKGROUND

Currently, most backpacks are constructed with a specific size (that canbe minimally reduced with compression materials or straps)and aretherefore limited by design to meet a limited range ofhiking/backpacking activities. Further, packs are designed to carrycamping gear, and are not designed to serve a secondary purpose.Further, when a backpacker/hiker carries a backpack, it is critical thatthe bulk of the weight being carried be proportionately distributed nearto the user's spine, and low on the user's hips. Using too small/toolarge of a pack can cause severe discomfort and/or injury. Further,almost ⅔ of the 13.5 million Americans who backpack take at least threetrips a year, and activity studies have shown interest in differentdurations/types of trips within this multi-user group. The combinedimpact of these factors creates a setting in which users are forced tobuy a series of different sized backpacks to meet their own varyingneeds. There is therefore a desire for a backpack system that cansupport multiple individual needs, regardless of the trip planned or thegear that needs to be carried, by allowing greater versatility in thesize of the pack.

Thus, there exists a need for a backpack which, via a modular system ofcore components and modules that can be used individually orcollectively, provides pack equipment that is capable of being tailoredto different size requirements, and multi-configurable by the user toseveral different types of activities or uses in which backpackers andhikers engage.

SUMMARY

From the discussion given above it can be appreciated that an improvedmodular backpack system is desirable. The following discussion providesimproved modular backpack systems and methods.

Embodiments of the systems and methods described herein provide aproduct that allows interaction of a series of components to create abackpack system that can be used collectively or independently asindividual components. The upper and lower pack components connect toform a back panel, and accept connection of modules to the back panelvia an attachment system placed on the back panel and disposed along thevertical length of the back panel. In so me embodiments, the adjustableattachment system on the back panel provides a free range of motion inthe sense that there are substantially no limits for where a module canbe connected to the back panel. This will allow users to best adjusttheir carried load to adhere to generally accepted methods for loading,in which the majority of weight being carried is to be placed low (nearhips) and close to the user's back. Further, this functionality canallow users to customize their pack for specific uses based on theequipment they need, eliminating the need to carry additional weightgenerated from packs that are too big for a user's need. Someembodiments can allow each individual component/module within the systemas a whole to be used independently from the system to expand the usefulnature of the gear, and to allow for secondary uses of each piece.

Further, there exists additional opportunity for this system to be usedin military applications, by soldiers who must carry their own gear, andwhose gear may change between roles. By allowing quick-connection ofmodules, every soldier could be issued the core backplane, and modulescould be applied thereto based on need. The release of modules can allowsoldiers to remove weight quickly in an emergency situation.

In general, in an aspect, a modular backpack system may be provided. Themodular backpack system includes a first back panel, a second back panelconfigured to be removably attached to the first back panel, the secondback panel including a first surface such that the first surface of thesecond back panel is wider than the first back panel, and an adjustableattachment system connected to the first surface of the second backpanel including a plurality of attachment rails disposed along at leasta portion of the vertical length of the second back panel in asubstantially parallel configuration.

Implementations of the system may include one or more of the followingfeatures. The plurality of attachment rails comprise a T-beam crosssection with a stem and the stem is connected to the first surface ofthe second back panel and the plurality of attachment rails arepositioned to be accessible while the second back panel is attached tothe first back panel. A set of removable shoulder harness strapsattached to the first back panel. A removable waist strap attached tothe second back panel. A modular pack designed to attach to theattachment rails via a plurality of cam lock mechanisms. The second backpanel further comprises a lumbar pad flexibly attached to a bottom edgeof the second back panel and the lumbar pad can be moved relative to thesecond back panel to form an L-shape camp chair. The lumbar pad may beunfolded from the second back panel to form a substantially flatsleeping mat.

In general, in another aspect, a portable camp chair may be provided.The portable camp chair may include a back panel, a seat pad flexiblycoupled to the bottom edge of the back panel, and a plurality of sidesupport straps with a first end connected to the back panel and a secondend connected to the seat pad and disposed to operate in tension torestrict the back panel and seat pad to substantially an L-shape whilethe camp chair is in use, wherein the camp chair is configured tointegrate into a wearable system when not in use.

In general, in another aspect, a modular backpack system may beprovided. The modular backpack system includes a first back panel, asecond back panel configured to be removably attached to the first backpanel, the second back panel including a first surface such that thefirst surface of the second back panel is wider than the first backpanel, and an adjustable attachment system connected to the firstsurface of the second back panel including at least one attachment railwherein the first back panel attaches to the second back panel bycovering at least a portion of a center section of the first surface ofthe second back panel.

Implementations of the system may include one or more of the followingfeatures. The at least one attachment rail comprises a T-beam crosssection with a stem and the stem is flexibly connected to the firstsurface of the second back panel. The at least one attachment railcomprises two attachment rails, and the two attachment rails aredisposed along at least a portion of the vertical length of the secondback panel in a substantially parallel configuration. The modularbackpack system further comprises a set of removable shoulder harnessstraps attached to the first back panel. A removable waist strapattached to the second back panel. A modular pack designed to attach tothe attachment rails via a plurality of cam lock mechanisms. The secondback panel further comprises a lumbar pad flexibly attached to a bottomedge of the second back panel and the lumbar pad can be moved relativeto the second back panel to form an L-shape camp chair.

In general, in another aspect, a modular backpack system may beprovided. The modular backpack system includes a first back panelconfigured and disposed adjacent to a user's back, the first back panelincluding a fastening flap, and a second back panel configured to beremovably inserted into to the fastening flap of the first back panel,the second back panel including a first surface such that the firstsurface of the second back panel is wider than the first back panel,wherein the first back panel and the second back panel coversubstantially the vertical length of the user's back when the secondback panel is inserted into the fastening flap of the first back paneland the first back panel is worn by the user adjacent to the user'sback, and wherein the second back panel is configured to be removed fromthe fastening flap of the first back panel, unfolded to a firstposition, and used separately as a camp chair in the first position andfurther configured to be unfolded to a second position and usedseparately as a sleeping pad.

Implementations of the system may include one or more of the followingfeatures. At least one module that is removably attached to the secondback panel. The at least one module is daypack. An additional volumemodule removably attached to the second back panel.

Other uses for the methods and apparatus given herein can be developedby those skilled in the art upon comprehending the present disclosure.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

For a fuller understanding of the nature and advantages of the presentinvention, reference is made to the following detailed description ofpreferred embodiments and in connection with the accompanying drawings,in which:

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary small backpack to be used as 1) ahydration pack, or 2) as part of the complete system, a first backpanel;

FIG. 2 illustrates a side view of the exemplary hydration pack/firstback panel of FIG. 1;

FIG. 3 illustrates an exemplary padded structure to be used as 1) asleeping pad/camp chair, or 2) as part of the complete system, thesecond back panel;

FIG. 4 illustrates a view of the exemplary padded structure of FIG. 3from the other side;

FIG. 5 illustrates the exemplary second back panel of FIGS. 3 and 4configured as a camp chair;

FIG. 6 illustrates the exemplary second back panel of FIGS. 3, 4, and 5configured as a sleeping pad;

FIG. 7 illustrates an exemplary daypack module;

FIG. 8 illustrates an exemplary additional volume compartment/bearbag;

FIG. 9 illustrates an exemplary cam-lock mechanism handle; and

FIG. 10 illustrates an exemplary cam-lock mechanism

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The present disclosure describes modular backpack systems and methods.The modular backpack system includes several core components which canbe configured to meet a particular user's body size as well as theuser's activity requirements. The core components can be attached anddetached from each other to meet specific needs. Further, a series ofactivity specific/other camp need modules can be provided as add-ons tothe core system to increase functional use and to improve usefulness ofthe system.

We now turn to a description of an exemplary system for providing animproved modular backpack system. FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary andsimplified representation of a hydration pack/first back panel 100. Thehydration pack/first back panel 100 includes a detachable shoulderharness/yoke 110, a hydration/storage module 120, and a waist strap 130.

In the exemplary arrangement of FIG. 1, the hydration pack/first backpanel 100 includes detachable shoulder harness/yoke 110. With furtherreference to FIG. 2, a simplified side view of the hydration pack/firstback panel 100 with the shoulder harness/yoke 110 attached is shown. Thedetachable shoulder harness/yolk 110 can allow the user to tailordifferent shoulder harness/yolks to the wearer and the situation. Forexample, the detachable shoulder harness/yolk 110 can be designeddifferently for a man or a woman. Also, the detachable shoulderharness/yolk 110 can be provided with varying levels of padding orsupport according to the user's personal preferences. The detachableshoulder harness/yolk 110 can be attached or coupled to the hydrationpack/first back panel 100 through various methods including, but notlimited to, fabric hook-and-loop fasteners (e.g., Velcro), fabrichook-on-hook, or interlocking mushroom-shaped stem fastening systems(e.g., 3M Dual Lock). Other fastening methods can include buttons,zippers, laces and buckles. The detachable shoulder harness/yolk 110 canbe attached or coupled to the hydration/storage module 120 by beinginserted into a first fastening compartment which can be configured withone of the above mentioned fastening methods and disposed to mate with acorresponding fastening element or elements on the detachable shoulderharness/yolk 110. The opening or mouth of the first fasteningcompartment is configured to be oriented at the top of thehydration/storage module 120 during normal use or when the hydrationpack/first back panel 100 is right side up. In some embodiments, thefirst fastening compartment can also be described as a fabric sleevewith a fastening mechanism on the inside of the sleeve. The detachableand adjustable design (e.g. fabric hook-on-hook) of the first fasteningcompartment with the corresponding shoulder harness/yolk 1 10 allows theentire hydration pack/first back panel 100 to be adjusted to a user'sheight by allowing the hydration/storage module 120 to be moved up ordown vertically relative to the shoulder harness/yolk 110 on the user'sback. In some embodiments the shoulder harness/yolk 110 is notdetachable from the hydration pack/first back panel 100.

The hydration/storage module 120 includes a hydration compartment 121, afirst storage compartment 122, and a second storage compartment 123. Inother embodiments, the module 120 may include a hydration compartment121 without a first storage compartment 122, or may include a firststorage compartment 122 without a hydration compartment 121. In stillother embodiments, the module 120 may include neither the hydrationcompartment 121, nor the first storage compartment 122. The module 120can be designed to be used beginning at the user's shoulders, andextending ½-⅔ of the distance from shoulders to hips. The hydrationcompartment 121 is designed to accept a liquid hydration bladder system.The hydration compartment 121 may be configured, in some embodiments, toaccept a liquid volume hydration bladder of up to three liters. Thehydration compartment 121 can be configured to receive the hydrationbladder through an opening on the top of the compartment. The firststorage compartment 122 may be configured as a traditional daypackvolume and functionality. The first storage compartment 122 may beselectively used at the user's discretion and can be compressed to savespace when not in use by numerous means including but not limited tozippering a zipper, buckling straps, or fastening Velcro, disposed onthe compartment's vertical circumference. The second storage compartment123 can be a small storage space for such items as cameras. The firstand second storage compartments 122, 123 may include a plurality ofaccess zippers 126. The module 120 may also include side storagecompartments 127, and exterior elastic storage 128. The second storagecompartment 123 can be positioned on the lower half to third of themodule 120. The hydration compartment 121, first storage compartment122, and second storage compartment 123 are arranged within thehydration/storage module 120 such that the hydration compartment 121 isclosest to, or proximal to the user's back. The first storagecompartment 122 is adjacent to the hydration compartment 121 away fromthe user's back. The second storage compartment 123 is the most distalfrom the user's back and adjacent to the first storage compartment 122.The hydration pack/first back panel 100 includes a back panel 124 thatis adjacent to the user's back and proximal to the hydration compartment121, and may be constructed of molded foams with an overlay of astretchable material for padding and comfort during use. Thehydration/storage module 120 also includes a second fasteningcompartment 125. The second fastening compartment 125 can be positionedinboard of the hydration compartment 121 proximal to the user's back.The second fastening compartment 125 can also be configured with one ofthe above mentioned fastening methods and disposed to mate with acorresponding fastening element or elements on another module of thesystem as described below. The opening or mouth of the second fasteningcompartment 125 is configured to be oriented at the bottom of thehydration/storage module 120 during normal use or when the hydrationpack/first back panel 100 is right side up. In some embodiments, thesecond fastening compartment 125 can also be described as a fabricsleeve with a fastening mechanism on the inside of the sleeve, or as afastening flap with a fastening mechanism on the inside of the flap.Although three storage compartments have been shown in this exemplaryembodiment, other quantities of storage compartments may be used. Also,in some embodiments, the storage compartments may be individuallydetachable.

The waist strap 130 can be permanently attached to the hydration/storagemodule 120 and utilized as a normal waist strap by the user when thehydration/storage module 120 is integrated with the detachable shoulderharness/yolk 110 to form the hydration pack/first back panel 100 whichis worn on the user's back as a backpack. The waist strap 130 caninclude straps and a buckle or other fastening means (e.g. Dual lock) toconnect around a user's waist or mid-section. The waist strap 130 mayalso be used to help compress the hydration/storage module 120 when thestorage compartments 123, 122 are not in use. The waist strap 130 canfold under and wrap around the hydration/storage module 120 and becinched tight against itself to assist in the compression of the module120.

Referring to FIG. 3, with further reference to FIGS. 1 and 2, a secondback panel 300 includes a back panel frame 310, a first T-beam 312, anda second T-beam 314.

The back panel frame 310 can be built out of a molded, rigid yetflexible material to provide structure, and will include molded foam forpadding and comfort during use. In one embodiment, the back panel frame310 includes an adjustable attachment system which includes at least tworigid T-beams 312, 314. The T-beams 312, 314 can be fabricated fromseveral materials including, but not limited to, aluminum, plastic,and/or composites. A first T-beam 312 can be positioned on a first sideof the back panel frame 310 which is distal or outward facing from theuser's back when worn. A second T-beam 314 is also positioned on thefirst side of the back panel frame 310. The first and second T-beams312, 314 are oriented to run vertically and substantially parallel alongthe length of the back panel frame 310. The first T-beam 312 can bepositioned substantially close to the left edge of the first side of theback panel frame 310 and the second T-beam 314 can be positionedsubstantially close to the right edge of the first side of the backpanel frame 310 so as to allow other components and modules to bepositioned against the center portion of the first side of the backpanel frame 310 between the first and second T-beams 312, 314. TheT-beams 312, 314 have a T-shaped cross section with a stem and the stemis connected to the first side of the back panel frame 310. The T-beams312, 314 are designed to support the connection of a series of otherpack modules via cam locks (not shown). The physical characteristics ofthe T-beams, 312, 314 allow continuous attachment points along thevertical length of the back panel frame 310. The lack of discrete orfinite connection point restrictions allows the user to variably adjustthe connection points of modules up or down, to suit the user's size andpreferences. The stems of the T-beams 312, 314 may be connected to thefirst side of the back panel frame 310 in such a manner as to allowbending or flexing of the T-beams about the base of the T-beam stems.Thus, in some embodiments, the T-beams 312, 314 may be connected to thedeformable foam padding of the back panel frame 310 to allow bending ofthe T-beams about their stems. In other embodiments, the T-beams 312,314 may be I-beam shapes with the lower half of the stem and the lowerflange sewn into a fabric material covering on the back panel frame 310thereby providing the equivalent of an exposed T-beam cross sectionalshape which can flex or twist within fabric containing the lower half ofthe I-beam. In still further embodiments, be two channels can be rivetedto the first side of the back panel frame 310. T-nuts, T-beams, or otherattachment system may be designed and configured to slide into theriveted channels on the first side of the back panel frame 310. TheT-nuts, T-beams, or other attachment system may be removed from thefirst side of the back panel frame 310 when not needed (ie—when usingthe panel as a sleeping pad or camp chair). The removable T-beams mayallow the user to switch out the T-beams for other channels made ofdifferent materials based on the preferences of the user.

In alternate embodiments, the adjustable attachment system described asthe T-beams 312, 314 above, may include fabric hook-and-loop fasteners(e.g. Velcro), fabric hook-on-hook, or interlocking mushroom-shaped stemfastening systems (e.g. 3M Dual Lock) instead of; or in addition to theT-beams. In further embodiments, an adjustable attachment system may beprovided on the back side of the back panel frame 310 by an adjustablepeg and hole, cam peg in slot, or other system configured insubstantially the same vertical orientation as described above withregards to the T-beams 312, 314. The receiver holes/slots for the pegscan be positioned substantially at the left and right edges of the backpanel frame 310 in a substantially parallel configuration. The receiverholes/slots can be designed to accept removable pegs or posts. The pegsmay be configured to allow plastic, deformable C-shape receptors to snaponto the pegs to hold modules/packs in place on the back panel frame310.

The center portion of the first side of the back panel frame 310 betweenthe first and second T-beams 312, 314 may be configured with acorresponding fastening system (e.g. fabric hook-on-hook) element tocouple with the second fastening compartment 125 at the bottom of thehydration pack/first back panel 100. Thus when the second back panel 300is integrated with the hydration pack/first back panel 100 via thesecond fastening compartment 125, the second back panel 300 can beadjusted vertically within the second fastening compartment 125 to allowadjustment of the pack system for users of different heights.

Referring to FIG. 4, a second view 400 of the second back panel 300 ofFIG. 3 includes a second surface 410, and a lumbar pad 420. The lumbarpad 420, can be a cushioned pad that is flexibly attached to the bottomof the back panel frame 310. The lumbar pad 420 is flipped up andattached to the second surface 410 of the back panel frame 310 which isproximal to the user's back to cushion the user's lower back. The lumbarpad 420 may removably attach to the second side 410 of the back panelframe 310 through various methods including but not limited to, fabrichook-and-loop fasteners (e.g. Velcro), or fabric hook-on-hook, orinterlocking mushroom-shaped stem fastening systems (e.g. 3M Dual Lock).

In some embodiments, the second back panel 300 may include a detachablehip belt that includes a strap with a buckle or other appropriatefastening system. The detachable hip belt can be attached to the secondback panel 300 by sliding the detachable hip belt through a sleeve orseries of belt loops on the back panel frame 310. The detachable hipbelt sleeve (not shown) can be positioned on the lower portion of theback panel frame 310. Thus, when the lumbar pad 420 is folded up andattached to the second surface 410 of the back panel frame 310, thelumbar pad 420 covers the detachable hip belt sleeve. While thedetachable hip belt is attached to the second back panel as part of themodular backpack, the detachable hip belt may function as a normal hipbelt by securing around the user's waist.

The second back panel 300, when not in use as a component of the modularbackpack system can be used in a secondary manner. Referring to FIG. 5,a portable camp chair 500 can be provided. The portable camp chair 500is provided when the second back panel 300 is unfolded into twohalf-sections to a first position to provide a seat and back for thecamp chair 500. Support for the L-shape of the chair can be provided bysuitable connecting straps 510 that connect the first half of the secondback panel 300 to the second half of the second back panel in atriangular shape on each side. Further referring to FIG. 6, the secondback panel 300 can be unfolded (e.g. detach connecting straps 510) to asecond position and laid flat on the ground to be used as a ¾ lengthsleeping pad 600 or other padded surface for user specific activities.When not in use as a camp chair 500, or sleeping pad 600 the second backpanel 300 is integrated into as a component of the modular backpacksystem which is worn by a user. The second back panel 300 may also serveother purposes such as a crash pad (for climbing) or yoga mat.

Referring to FIG. 7 a technical daypack module 700 can be an internalframe backpack component that can provide volumes between 2500 and 4000cubic inches using compression straps and expanding sections that arereleased by unzipping-or releasing Velcro connectors. In someembodiments, during independent use of the technical daypack module 700,the detachable shoulder harness/yoke 110 from the hydration pack/firstback panel 100 can be removed and inserted in a similar fasteningcompartment or sleeve on the daypack module 700, and the hip belt fromthe second back panel can be inserted in a similar compartment or sleevein the technical daypack module 700. When using the daypack module 700as a part of the modular system, four cam lock mechanisms (as describedin a following section) can be connected to the strapless daypack module700 via Velcro straps (not shown), and then connected to the T-beams312, 314 of the second back panel 300. The daypack module 700 may beplaced low on the second back panel 300 when additional space isunnecessary (and other modules are not in use), or high on the systemwhen other modules are in use. The daypack module 700 can in someembodiments include one central compartment accessible from top via drawstring closure, a top flap to secure/compress the top of the daypackmodule 700, and a series of externally sewn pockets. Additional accesspoints into the volume within the daypack module 700 may be integratedinto the front of the daypack module 700, and an external jacket carrierflap, secured using nylon webbing straps, may overlay the exterior.

Referring to FIG. 8 an additional volume compartment/bearbag 800 canprovide up to an additional 1000 cubic inches of volume if used inconjunction with the complete pack system, and may be thus connected tothe modular pack system and specifically the to the T-beams 312, 314 ofthe second back panel 300 as detailed in a following section using twocam-lock mechanisms connected to the module 800 using Velcro straps (notshown). The additional volume compartment/bearbag 800 may be constructedout of scent resistant fabrics to ensure that the module 800 may be usedindependently as a bear-bag (a food/smell emitting item container thatis hung from a tree to prevent encounters with bears and otherwildlife). The additional volume compartment/bearbag 800 can include twomolded foam sections with a soft material between the discs to providethe carrying bag with a draw-string closure. The two molded sections,placed on the either end of the bag, can be connected using nylonwebbing straps that can be used to compress the contents of the bag whenin use. Access to the compartment may be available after releasing oneof the molded sections, or by unzipping a side access zipper that willextend along the side of the soft material part of the module. As such,this access may be from the side when used in the system, and from anend when used as a bear-bag. A nylon webbing loop may be placed on eachmolded section allowing placement of ice axes when used in the greaterpack system, or as a method to connect the bear-bag to the rope fromwhich it is suspended from tree.

Referring to FIG. 9, a cam lock handle 900 includes a cam 910 and ahandle 920. The cam lock handle 900 is configured to be part of the camlock mechanism described below. The cam 910 includes a hole for a pivotpoint pin, and a rubberized cam surface. The handle 920 includes a thumbhole for the user.

Referring to FIG. 10 a cam lock mechanism 1000 includes the cam-shapeddisc 910, the handle 920, a rubberized wheel or disk 1010, a cammechanism housing 1020, a T-beam 1030, a module connector slot 1040, alocking pin 1050, and a cam pivot pin 1060.

The cam lock mechanism 1000 is configured such that the gap between thecam-shaped disc 910, and the wheel 1010 narrows when the cam-shaped disc910 is rotated in a downward motion. This closure of the gap is thusused to provide the locking pressure on the T-beam 1030, which may beone of the T-beams 312, 314. During use, a module's cam locks can beslid from top of the second back panel 300 onto one of the T-beams 312,314, and when in desired position, can be secured by the user pushingthe handle 920 on the cam disc 910 in a downward motion, therebycreating a pinch effect on the center member of the T-beam. The cam lockmechanism 1000 can be detachably connected to various bags or modulesvia a snap in connector 1040 that is configured to receive a protrusionon the cam housing 1020. Multiple cam lock mechanisms 1000 of varyingsizes can be included in a modular backpack system. Multiple cam lockmechanisms 1000 can be used to attach other modules to the T-beams 312,314 of the second back panel 300 as described above.

In other embodiments, a series of other modules, designed to beindividually functional for use in a number of other activities in thefield, including (but not limited to) rock climbing, trail running, iceclimbing, mountaineering, bait/lure fishing, fly-fishing, firearmhunting, bow hunting, or photography, or for use as another camp neededitem, including (but not limited to) a tent or sleeping bag, may bedesigned and built to be used in conjunction with the modular backpacksystem and T-beams 312, 314 on the second back panel 300. These modulesmay connect to the T-beams 312, 314 using cam lock mechanisms similar oridentical to those used with other modules, and these cam lockmechanisms may also be connected to these modules using Velcro straps.In addition, other items like coolers, kid carriers, etc. may be builtto work using these same connection mechanics.

The present invention should not be considered limited to the particularembodiments described above, but rather should be understood to coverall aspects of the invention as fairly set out in the attached claims.Various modifications, equivalent processes, as well as numerousstructures to which the present invention may be applicable, will bereadily apparent to those skilled in the art to which the presentinvention is directed upon review of the present disclosure. The claimsare intended to cover such modifications.

1. A modular backpack system, the system comprising: a first back panel;a second back panel configured to be removably attached to the firstback panel, the second back panel including a first surface such thatthe first surface of the second back panel is wider than the first backpanel; and an adjustable attachment system connected to the firstsurface of the second back panel including a plurality of attachmentrails disposed along at least a portion of the vertical length of thesecond back panel in a substantially parallel configuration.
 2. Thesystem of claim 1 wherein the plurality of attachment rails comprise aT-beam cross section with a stem and the stem is connected to the firstsurface of the second back panel and the plurality of attachment railsare positioned to be accessible while the second back panel is attachedto the first back panel.
 3. The system of claim 2 wherein the modularbackpack system further comprises a set of removable shoulder harnessstraps attached to the first back panel.
 4. The system of claim 3further comprising a removable waist strap attached to the second backpanel.
 5. The system of claim 4 further comprising a modular packdesigned to attach to the attachment rails via a plurality of cam lockmechanisms.
 6. The system of claim 1 wherein the second back panelfurther comprises a lumbar pad flexibly attached to a bottom edge of thesecond back panel and the lumbar pad can be moved relative to the secondback panel to form an L-shape camp chair.
 7. The system of claim 6wherein the lumbar pad may be unfolded from the second back panel toform a substantially flat sleeping mat.
 8. A portable camp chair, thechair comprising: a back panel; a seat pad flexibly coupled to thebottom edge of the back panel; and a plurality of side support strapswith a first end connected to the back panel and a second end connectedto the seat pad and disposed to operate in tension to restrict the backpanel and seat pad to substantially an L-shape while the camp chair isin use; wherein the camp chair is configured to integrate into awearable system when not in use.
 9. A modular backpack system, thesystem comprising: a first back panel; a second back panel configured tobe removably attached to the first back panel, the second back panelincluding a first surface such that the first surface of the second backpanel is wider than the first back panel; and an adjustable attachmentsystem connected to the first surface of the second back panel includingat least one attachment rail: wherein the first back panel attaches tothe second back panel by covering at least a portion of a center sectionof the first surface of the second back panel.
 10. The system of claim 9wherein the at least one attachment rail comprises a T-beam crosssection with a stem and the stem is flexibly connected to the firstsurface of the second back panel.
 11. The system of claim 10 wherein theat least one attachment rail comprises two attachment rails, and the twoattachment rails are disposed along at least a portion of the verticallength of the second back panel in a substantially parallelconfiguration.
 12. The system of claim 11 wherein the modular backpacksystem further comprises a set of removable shoulder harness strapsattached to the first back panel.
 13. The system of claim 12 furthercomprising a removable waist strap attached to the second back panel.14. The system of claim 13 further comprising a modular pack designed toattach to the attachment rails via a plurality of cam lock mechanisms.15. The system of claim 9 wherein the second back panel furthercomprises a lumbar pad flexibly attached to a bottom edge of the secondback panel and the lumbar pad can be moved relative to the second backpanel to form an L-shape camp chair.
 16. A modular backpack system, thesystem comprising: a first back panel configured and disposed adjacentto a user's back, the first back panel including a fastening flap; and asecond back panel configured to be removably inserted into to thefastening flap of the first back panel, the second back panel includinga first surface such that the first surface of the second back panel iswider than the first back panel; wherein the first back panel and thesecond back panel cover substantially the vertical length of the user'sback when the second back panel is inserted into the fastening flap ofthe first back panel and the first back panel is worn by the useradjacent to the user's back; wherein the second back panel is configuredto be removed from the fastening flap of the first back panel, unfoldedto a first position, and used separately as a camp chair in the firstposition and further configured to be unfolded to a second position andused separately as a sleeping pad.
 17. The modular backpack system ofclaim 16 further comprising at least one module that is removablyattached to the second back panel.
 18. The modular backpack system ofclaim 17 wherein the at least one module is daypack.
 19. The modularbackpack system of claim 18 further comprising an additional volumemodule removably attached to the second back panel.